How do batteries give the electrons their energy?

In summary, when electrons flow through a resistor, they lose the energy gained from chemical reactions in the battery. These reactions create an electrical potential difference in the battery, which provides the energy for the electrons to flow. However, this process is not sustainable in a closed system and eventually stops working. The energy gained is in the form of a microscopic push on the electrons, which then push their neighboring electrons to continue the flow.
  • #1
sodium.dioxid
51
0
When a coulomb (of electron) flows through a resistor, it loses the energy it gained in the battery. How were these electrons fueled in the battery in the first place? I already know that chemical reactions rearrange electrons in the battery. But this doesn't directly address the energy gain (voltage) in the battery.
 
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  • #2
In a battery, chemical reactions provide for an electrical "potential difference" of the electrodes.
If you are confused, remember that these types of reactions are not perpetually sustainable in a 'closed' system.
They work for a while, then not.
 
  • #3
Hi sodium.dioxid, welcome to PF

Remember that energy is the capacity to do work and that work is f.d, so fundamentally a battery works by giving a small f over a microscopic d that literally pushes on the electron. That is where the energy comes from, that microscopic push.
 
  • #5
Sorry guys, I meant to say electric device rather than resistor. Anyway, so they gain chemical energy? But what is that and how do the electrons react to it once they get it.
 
  • #6
sodium.dioxid said:
Anyway, so they gain chemical energy? But what is that
A microscopic push, as I already mentioned.

sodium.dioxid said:
and how do the electrons react to it once they get it.
They push their neighboring electrons.
 

FAQ: How do batteries give the electrons their energy?

How do batteries store energy?

Batteries store energy through a process called electrochemical reaction. Chemical energy is converted into electrical energy and stored in the battery until it is needed.

How do batteries release energy?

Batteries release energy when a circuit is completed and electrons flow from the negative terminal of the battery to the positive terminal. This flow of electrons creates an electrical current that can be used to power devices.

What type of energy do batteries provide?

Batteries provide electrical energy, which is a form of energy that is used to power electronic devices.

How do batteries give electrons their energy?

Batteries use a chemical reaction to push electrons from the negative terminal to the positive terminal. This creates a buildup of electrons on the negative side and a shortage of electrons on the positive side, providing the electrons with energy to flow through a circuit.

How do different types of batteries differ in their energy output?

Different types of batteries have different chemical compositions, which affect their energy output. Some batteries, like lithium-ion batteries, have a higher energy density and can provide more energy compared to other types of batteries.

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